If your ophthalmologist will perform LASIK, EpiLASIK, LASEK, PRK, or custom LASIK on you, she will probably give you some advice to better the your outcome. The American Academy of Opthalmology Web site points you to "Basik Lasik," a brochure produced by the FTC and the AAO.

"Basik Lasik," available at www.ftc.gov, advises that you:

* Not take Accutane or oral prednisone

* For myopia patients: Postpone LASIK until your myopic refraction has stabilized in your mid to late 20s

* Be in good general health, and discuss any diabetes, high blood pressure and other medical conditions with your opthalmologist

* Not be pregnant or breastfeeding since hormone changes can affect the outcome

Also, other risk factors such as smoking can affect LASIK results, so you have an excellent reason to follow your regular physician's admonitions. Besides, you want to get rid of your glasses and don't want to be out of breath when you're boogie boarding.

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